At the very start of Ramadan, Pakistan witnessed a notable increase in inflation, raising concerns for consumers amid the holy month. According to the latest data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), the weekly inflation rate climbed by 1.16 percent, pushing the annual inflation rate to 5.19 percent.
The PBS weekly report highlighted changes in the prices of essential commodities across the country. Out of the 51 items monitored, 17 commodities experienced price increases, 12 saw a decline, and 22 remained largely unchanged.
Among the most significant surges, bananas became Rs28 per dozen more expensive, while live chicken prices rose by Rs19 per kilogram. Other staples such as garlic and onions recorded increases of Rs28 per kg and Rs3 per kg, respectively. Tomatoes also saw a weekly rise of Rs4 per kg.
The energy sector added further pressure on household budgets. The price of high-speed diesel rose by Rs7.26 per liter, petrol increased by Rs5 per liter, and a domestic LPG cylinder became Rs26 costlier, compounding the impact of rising food prices on consumers.
Despite these increases, some relief was observed in select commodities. Eggs fell by Rs33 per dozen, potatoes declined by Rs1 per kg, and a 20kg bag of flour dropped by Rs47. Additionally, prices of sugar, lentils (masoor), cooking oil, ghee, rice, and jaggery saw marginal decreases, offering limited respite to shoppers.
Analysts note that the rise in inflation at the onset of Ramadan could affect consumer spending, particularly among low- and middle-income households, who are already facing higher costs for daily essentials. Market observers have urged the government and authorities to monitor price fluctuations closely to prevent undue strain on families during the festive month.
